I’m from Cedar Rapids, and since graduating, I bought a house here... so now I’m stuck here!

I can’t pinpoint what class (or faculty member!) it was that made me realize I wanted to work for a non-profit after graduation. But that’s one of the biggest things I got from Mount Mercy.

I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve been asked, “if you went to college for 4 years, why do you want to do that?” Money isn’t everything - but having a good boss and job you enjoy is.

During my time at Mount Mercy, I was fortunate enough to be an intern at the Catherine McAuley Center and I absolutely loved it. Getting to work with people from various background offered me new perspectives and I got to teach others something I’ve never really done before.

I was also lucky enough to be a marketing intern at Farmers State Bank, and I loved having something new to do each day - and I found out that I love working events. Post graduation came and I didn’t know what I was going to do. I got pre-approved for my first home the morning of my interview for Deafinitely Dogs where I am currently the Community Outreach Coordinator (and working for another MMU alumni!) I get to work events, meet lots of new people - and even get to have some MMU students volunteer at our events. How lucky am I?! Life came together all at once!

One thing I’m glad to have gotten from Mount Mercy is giving back to the community.

It can be done in SO many ways, there’s bound to be a way to give back while doing something you love. Walking shelter dogs, shopping for those less fortunate than you, or even just attending charity events with your friends!

Along with my job where I get to hang out with cute puppies, I am currently raising a Service Dog in Training through definitely dogs and after my best pal, Rocky has two years of training, he will be placed with someone who has a disability.

I love being able to advocate for those who have disabilities and educate those who want to bring their pets into public but don’t know the impacts it can have on others.

I still like to live life on the edge...The most memorable times from Mount Mercy didn’t take place in the classrooms... from company visits with SIHRM to attending the Berkshire Hathaway Shareholders meeting with the Investments Club to Germany, Austria, and Italy and Ireland with Tiffany.

Even though I was a transfer student to Mount Mercy, I am so glad that I chose to get involved - even if it was in small ways!

I’m so thankful for all of the experiences I had during my time at Mount Mercy University. Every class I had made an impact - and all of the faculty and staff are genuine people who want to help you succeed, and even stay in touch with you after graduation. I couldn’t imagine graduating from anywhere else.